'DPRK Developing Nuclear Torpedo & Sea Mine'

Several South Korean media reports have claimed the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), or North Korea, has been developing nuclear-tipped torpedoes and sea mines. If true, this would constitute a new type of DPRK's anti-access capability which has so far relied heavily upon midget submarines and conventional sea mines, as well as two types of weapons that can keep the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States (US) at bay at least during limited conflicts: land-based anti-ship missiles and coastal batteries.

Citing a group representing refugees from the DPRK, the media report claimed a DPRK state-run organization called the 108 Research Institute reportedly began research and development (R&D) on these weapons sometime in March 2009. The nuclear torpedo is scheduled to be completed by 2012, while the nuclear sea mine has nearly completed development.

An unnamed source, who spoke to the refugee group, had reportedly claimed, "Once North Korea completes the development of the nuclear torpedo and sea mine, Japanese navy bases and American aircraft carriers may be neutralized. American intervention in case of a peninsular crisis may also be deterred."

R&D efforts are known to have been undertaken by two groups within the 108 Research Institute with each one responsible for one weapon type. The 108 Research Institute is known to be receiving cooperation from the Gusong Electronic Research Institute and technicians from unidentified weapons factories. The 108 Research Institute is under Bureau 131 which is known to be responsible for the DPRK's nuclear weapons program, overseeing approximately 10 research institutes.

Another unnamed source, who allegedly works at a weapons factory in North Pyeongan Province, is known to have told the refugee organization that though the development of the nuclear torpedo faces significant technical hurdles, the nuclear sea mine is far less sophisticated and may enter production when deemed necessary.

While media outlets reported these claims with much enthusiasm, their validity remains to be seen.